Reproducing apparatus and method, program offering medium and storage medium

ABSTRACT

In order to make it possible to control titles separately or continuously, title_playback_mode_flag is recorded on an optical disk. When this flag is “1,” the CPU of a system controller, when the reproduction of one title on the optical disk has ended, continues to have the next title reproduced. When this flag is “0,” the CPU, when the reproduction of one title has ended, causes reproduction to be discontinued then.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a reproducing apparatus and method, aprogram offering medium and a storage medium, and more particularly to areproducing apparatus and method, a program offering medium and astorage medium which enable the user to accomplish reproduction in anunrestricted, variegated manner.

Recently, disks are attracting keen note as storage media for recordingvideo information and the like to replace magnetic tapes. Magnetictapes, which do not permit random access, are suitable for recording andreproducing video information only consecutively.

As opposed to them, disks permit ready random access, and accordinglyenable any desired part of video information, even if it is recordedconsecutively with other parts, in any desired sequence.

However, if a prescribed portion of information recorded on a disk is tobe reproduced in any sequential position, the sequence of reproductionhas to be stored in the reproducing apparatus. As a result, if the diskis to be played back on another reproducing apparatus, that otherreproducing apparatus has to be taught and caused to store the sequenceof reproduction anew, which meant corresponding inconvenience inoperation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been proposed in view of this circumstance,and is intended to achieve improved operating convenience.

According to one aspect of the invention, a reproducing apparatuscomprises a reproducing means for reproducing information recorded on astorage medium, an extracting means for extracting playback modeinformation defining a playback mode from the information reproduced bythe reproducing means, and a control means responsive to the playbackmode information extracted by the extracting means for controlling thereproduction continuity of main information from the storage medium.

According to another aspect of the invention, a reproducing methodcomprises a reproducing step to reproduce information recorded on astorage medium, an extracting step to extract playback mode informationdefining a playback mode from the information reproduced at thereproducing step, and a control step responsive to the playback modeinformation extracted at the extracting step to control the reproductioncontinuity of main information from the storage medium.

According to still another aspect of the invention, a program offeringmedium offers a program to cause a reproducing apparatus for reproducinginformation recorded on a storage medium to execute processes comprisinga reproducing step to reproduce information recorded on the storagemedium, an extracting step to extract playback mode information defininga playback mode from the information reproduced at the reproducing step,and a control step responsive to the playback mode information extractedat the extracting step to control the reproduction continuity of maininformation from the storage medium.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, a storage mediumrecords thereon playback mode information in accordance with which, whenthe reproduction of a prescribed part of main information has beencompleted, either another part of main information continues to bereproduced or reproduction is discontinued.

The reproducing apparatus, the reproducing method and the programoffering medium referred to above are responsive to the playback modeinformation reproduced from the storage medium for controlling thereproduction continuity of main information.

The storage medium described above has recorded thereon in advanceplayback mode information in accordance with which, when thereproduction of a prescribed part of main information has beencompleted, either another part of main information continues to bereproduced or reproduction is discontinued.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparentfrom the following detailed description of preferred embodiments thereofwhen taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the structure of a directory;

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining VOLUME.TOC;

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining volume_information ( );

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining volume_attribute ( )

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining resume ( );

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining volume_rating ( );

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining write_protect ( );

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining play_protecto ( );

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining recording_timer ( );

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining text_block ( );

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining language_seto ( );

FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining text_item ( );

FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining ALBUM.STR;

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining album ( );

FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining TITLE_###.VDR;

FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining title_info ( );

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining program_$$$. PGI;

FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining program ( );

FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining play_list ( );

FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining play_item ( );

FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining CHUNKGROUP_###.CGIT;

FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining chunk_connection_info ( );

FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining chunk_arrangement_info ( );

FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining CHUNK_%%%%. ABST;

FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating a structural example of anoptical disk apparatus to which the invention is applied;

FIG. 26 is a diagram for explaining the structure of a directory;

FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining the logical structure of thedirectory;

FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining offset;

FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining the structure of a directory;

FIG. 30 is a diagram for explaining the structure of a directory;

FIG. 31 is a diagram for explaining the logical structure of adirectory;

FIG. 32 is a diagram for explaining the structure of a directory;

FIG. 33 is a diagram for explaining the structure of a directory;

FIG. 34 is a diagram for explaining the logical structure of adirectory;

FIG. 35 is a diagram for explaining the logical structure of adirectory;

FIG. 36 is a diagram for explaining title_playback_mode_flag ( );

FIG. 37 is a diagram for explaining program_playback_mode_flag ( );

FIG. 38 is a flowchart for explaining the title reproduction process;and

FIG. 39 is a flowchart for explaining the program reproducing process.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below.In the following, characteristics of the invention will be describedwith reference to the corresponding embodiment (only one example) inparentheses after each means cited to make clear the correspondencebetween each means of the invention as stated in the pertinent claim andits counterpart in the preferred embodiment. However, this is nothing tosuggest that the present invention is limited to the means describedhereinafter.

A reproducing apparatus according to one aspect of the invention ischaracteristic in that it comprises a reproducing means (e.g. an opticalhead 2 in FIG. 25) for reproducing information recorded on a storagemedium, an extracting means (e.g. step S15 in FIG. 38) for extractingplayback mode information defining a playback mode from the informationreproduced by the reproducing means, and a control means (e.g. steps S16and S19 in FIG. 38) responsive to the playback mode informationextracted by the extracting means for controlling the reproductioncontinuity of main information from the storage medium.

A reproducing apparatus according to another aspect of the invention ischaracteristic in that the storage medium is capable of recording andreproduction, and is further provided with a recording means (e.g. theoptical head 2 in FIG. 25) for recording playback information on thestorage medium.

File allocation on a storage medium (media) onto or from whichinformation is recorded or reproduced according to the invention will beexplained first. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the following seven kinds offiles are recorded on the medium.

VOLUME.TOC

ALBUM.STR

PROGRAM_$$$.PGI

TITLE_###.VDR

CHUNKGROUP_@@@.CGIT

CHUNK_%%%%.ABST

CHUNK_%%%%.MPEG2

The files VOLUME.TOC and ALBUM.STR are placed in a root directory.Further, “PROGRAM_$$$.PGI” (“$$$” here represents a program number) isplaced in the directory “PROGRAM” immediately under the root directory.Similarly, “TITLE_###. VDR” (“###” here represents a title the directory“TITLE” immediately under the root directory, while“CHUNKGROUP_@@@.CGIT” (“@@@” here represents a chunk group number) and“CHUNK_%%%%.ABST” (“%%%%” here represents a chunk number) arerespectively placed in the directory “CHUNKGROUP” and in the directory“CHUNK”.

One or more sub-directories are further generated in the MPEGAVdirectory immediately under the root directory, and thereunder“CHUNK_%%%%.ABST” (“%%%%” here represents a chunk number) is placed.

Usually, there is only one VOLUME.TOC file on a medium. However, aplurality of VOLUME.TOC files may be present in a medium of a specificstructure, such as a medium of a hybrid ROM-RAM structure. This file isused to indicate the overall character of the medium.

VOLUME.TOC is structured as shown in FIG. 2. Placed first isfile_type_id, indicating that the relevant file is VOLUME.TOC. It isfollowed by volume_information ( ) and finally comes text_block.

FIG. 3 illustrates the configuration of volume_information ( ). Thisarea includes volume_attribute ( ), resume ( ), volume_rating ( ),write_protect ( ), play_protect ( ) and recording_timer ( ).

The volume_attribute ( ) area is provided to record the attributes ofthe logical volume, and its detailed structure is shown in FIG. 4. Asillustrated there, this area includes title_playback_mode_flag andprogram_playback_mode_flag.

The resume ( ) area is intended to record information for restoring thestate immediately before ejection, and its detailed structure isillustrated in FIG. 5.

The volume_rating ( ) area in FIG. 3 is intended to record informationfor the accomplishment of age restriction of the viewers for the wholevolume according to the age and category, and its detailed structure isshown in FIG. 7.

The play_protect ( ) area in FIG. 3 is provided to record informationfor setting permission or prohibition regarding titles and programsrecorded in the volume or limiting the frequency of reproduction, andits detailed structure is illustrated in FIG. 8.

The recording_timer area in FIG. 3 is intended to record information forcontrolling the recording time, and its detailed structure is shown inFIG. 9.

The detailed structure of text_block (of VOLUME.TOC in FIG. 2 isillustrated in FIG. 10. This text_block area includes language_set andtext_item , whose detailed structures are shown in FIGS. 11 and 12,respectively.

There i s usually only one ALBUM.STR file, shown in FIG. 1, on a medium.However, a plurality of ALBUM.STR files may be present in a medium of aspecific structure, such as a medium of a hybrid ROM-RAM structure. Thisfile is used to combine a plurality of medium into a structure in whichthey look as if they were a single medium.

The structure of this ALBUM.STR is illustrated in FIG. 13. First comesfile_type_id to indicate that the file is ALBUM.STR. It is followed byalbum ( ), and last comes text_block.

The album ( ) area is intended to record information for treating aplurality of volumes (a plurality of media) as one aggregate, and itsdetailed structure is shown in FIG. 14.

There are as many TITLE_###.VDR files of FIG. 1 as titles. A titlerefers to, for instance, one number on a compact disc or one program oftelevision broadcast. The structure of this information is illustratedin FIG. 15. First place is the file_type_id area, which indicates thatthe relevant file is TITLE_###.VDR. Next comes title_infor ( ), and lastcomes text_block ( ), ### representing a character sequence indicatingthe title number.

The title_info ( ) area is for recording the attributes of a title,including its start point and end point, on the chunkgroup. Its detailedstructure is shown in FIG. 16.

There are as many PROGRAM_$$$.PGI files of FIG. 1 as programs. A programconsists of a plurality of cuts designating a part (or the whole) of thearea of a title, and individual cuts are reproduced in a specifiedsequence. The structure of information is shown in FIG. 17. First placedis file_type_id, indicating that the relevant file is PROGRAM_$$$.PGI.Next comes programs ( ), followed by text_block ( ) as the final area,$$$ representing a character sequence indicating the title number.

The program ( ) are a is intended for recording information which isneeded for collecting and reproducing necessary parts of a title withoutsubjecting the raw material to irreversible editing. Its detailedstructure is illustrated in FIG. 18.

The program ( ) area in FIG. 18 has one play_list. Details of thisplay_list ( ) are shown in FIG. 19.

The play_list area includes a plurality of play_item areas, whosedetails are illustrated in FIG. 10.

There are as many CHUNKGROUP_@@@.CGIT files of FIG. 1 as chunkgroups. Achunkgroup is a data structure for arranging a bit stream. This file isnot recognized by the user as long as the user is normally operating anapparatus for recording onto or reproduction from a medium, such as avideo disc recorder (VDR).

The structure of this information is shown in FIG. 21. First placed isthe file_type_id area, indicating that the relevant file isCHUNKGROUUP_@@.CGIT. Next come chunkgroup_time_base_flags andchunkgroup_time_base _offset, followed by chunk_connection_info ( ), andlast comes text_block.

The chunkgroup_time_base_flags area indicates a flag concerning thereference counter of the chunkgroup, while thechunkgroup_time_base_offset area indicates the start time of thereference time axis. This is a counter to be set in a counter countingup at 90 kHz, and has a size of 32 bits. The chunk_connection_info ( )area is provided to store information on unique points, including theswitching point of video and synchronism between video and audio, andits detailed structure is illustrated in FIG. 22.

This chunk_connection_info ( ) has as many chunk_arrangement_info ( )loops as chunks belonging to the chunkgroup. FIG. 23 illustrates detailsof this chunk_arrangement_info ( ).

There are as many CHUNK_%%%%.ABST of FIG. 1 as chunks. A chunk is aninformation file corresponding to one stream file. The structure ofinformation is shown in FIG. 24. First placed is file_type_id,indicating that the relevant file is CHUNK_%%%%.ABST.

The CHUNK_%%%%.MPEG2 of FIG. 1 is a stream file. This file stores thebit stream of MPEG, unlike other files which record solely information.

FIG. 25 illustrates an example of configuration of an optical diskapparatus for recording or reproducing information onto or from anoptical disk as a medium having the files described above. In thisoptical disk apparatus, an optical head 2 of one line is provided forone programmable optical disk 1, and is commonly used for both readingand writing data.

A bit stream read out of the optical disk 1, after being demodulated byan RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3, is subjected to errorcorrection by an ECC circuit 4, and sent via a switch 5 to a readingchannel buffer 6 for absorbing any difference between the reading rateand the decoding rate. The reading channel buffer 6 is configured to beable to read and write data from and into a system controller 13.

The bit stream outputted from the reading channel buffer 6 is decoded bythe decoder 7, which then outputs video signals and audio signals. Thevideo signals supplied from the decoder 7 are entered into asynthesizing circuit 8 and, after being synthesized with video signalssupplied from an on-screen display (OSD) control circuit 9, suppliedfrom an output terminal P1 to a display unit (not shown), on which theyare displayed. Audio signals supplied from the decoder 7 are deliveredfrom an output terminal P2 to a loudspeaker (not shown) and reproduced.

On the other hand, video signals entered from an input terminal P3 andaudio signals entered from an input terminal P4, after being encoded byan encoder 10, are delivered to a writing channel buffer 11 forabsorbing any difference between the encoding rate and the writing rate.This writing channel buffer 11, too, is configured to be able to readand write data from and into a system controller 13.

Data accumulated in the writing channel buffer 11 are read out of thewriting channel buffer 11, entered via the switch 5 into the ECC circuit4, where they undergo the addition of an error correction code, anddemodulated by the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3. Signalsoutputted from the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3 (RF signals)are written into the optical disk 1 by the optical head 2.

An address detecting circuit 12 detects address information on the trackfor recording or reproduction on the optical disk 1. The systemcontroller 13, intended for control of the operations of differentsections of this optical disk apparatus, comprises a CPU 21 forperforming various controls, a ROM 22 in which processing programs andthe like to be executed by the CPU 21 are stored, a RAM 23 fortemporarily storing data and the like generated in the course ofprocessing, and a RAM 24 for recording or reproducing variousinformation files into or out of the optical disk 1. The CPU 21 performsfine adjustment of the position of the optical head 2 on the basis ofthe detection result of the address detecting circuit 12. The CPU 21also controls the changing over of the switch 5. An input section 14consisting of various switches and buttons is manipulated by the userwhen various commands are to be entered.

Next will be described the basic operation to read an information file.For instance, when the“VOLUME.TOC” information file is to be read, theCPU 21 of the system controller 13, using a file system manipulationcommand incorporated in advance into its processing program, determinesa physical address on the optical disk 1 where the“VOLUME.TOC” isrecorded and its length. Then the CPU 21 shifts the optical head 2 toits read position on the basis of this address information on“VOLUME.TOC.” The CPU 21 sets the optical head 2, the RF anddemodulating/modulating circuit 3 and the ECC circuit 4 in the readmode, changes over the switch 5 toward the reading channel buffer 6 and,after fine adjustment of the position of the optical head 2, causes theoptical head 2 to start reading. The contents of “VOLUME.TOC” arethereby read by the optical head 2, demodulated by the RF anddemodulating/modulating circuit 3 and, after undergoing error correctionby the ECC circuit 4, accumulated in the reading channel buffer 6.

When the quantity of data accumulated in the reading channel buffer 6has become equal to or greater than the size of “VOLUME.TOC,” the CPU 21causes the read operation to be stopped. After that, the CPU 21 readspertinent data from the reading channel buffer 6, and stores them intothe RAM 24.

Next, the basic operation to write an information file will bedescribed, with a case of writing the “VOLUME.TOC” information filebeing taken up as an example. The CPU 21, using a file systemmanipulation command incorporated in advance into its processingprogram, searches for a vacant area as large as or larger than the“VOLUME.TOC” to be written, and determines its address.

Next the CPU 21 transfers to the writing channel buffer 11 the“VOLUME.TOC” to be newly written, made ready in the RAM 24. Then the CPU21 shifts the optical head 2 to the write position on the basis of theaddress information on the vacant area. The CPU 21 sets the optical head2, the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3 and the ECC circuit 4 inthe write mode, switches the switch 5 toward the writing channel buffer11 and, after fine adjustment of the position of the optical head 2,causes the optical head 2 to start writing.

Newly readied contents of “VOLUME.TOC” are thereby read out of thereading channel buffer 11 and, after undergoing error correction by theECC circuit 4, demodulated by the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit3. Signals supplied from the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3are recorded onto the optical disk 1 by the optical head 2. When thequantity of data read out of the writing channel buffer 11 and recordedon the optical disk has become equal to the size of “VOLUME.TOC,” theCPU 21 causes the write operation to be stopped.

Finally, the CPU 21, using a file system manipulation commandincorporated in advance into its processing program, updates the pointerto “VOLUME.TOC” in a file system (the optical disk 1) to make it pointto the newly written position.

Next, the basic operation for stream reproduction will be described,with a case of reproducing the CHUNK_0001.MPEG2 of FIG. 1 being taken upas an example. The CPU 21, using a file system manipulation commandincorporated in advance into its processing program, determines aphysical address on the optical disk 1 where the “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” isrecorded and its length. Then the CPU 21 shifts the optical head 2 toits read position on the basis of this address information on“CHUNK_0001.MPEG2.” The CPU 21 sets the optical head 2, the RF anddemodulating/modulating circuit 3 and the ECC circuit 4 in the readmode, switches the switch 5 toward the reading channel buffer 6 and,after fine adjustment of the position of the optical head 2, causes theoptical head 2 to start reading.

The contents of “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” read by the optical head 2 areaccumulated in the reading channel buffer 6 via the RF anddemodulating/modulating circuit 3, the ECC circuit 4 and the switch 5.The data accumulated in the reading channel buffer 6 are supplied to thedecoder 7, which decodes them and outputs video signals and audiosignals. The audio signals are supplied from the output terminal P2,while the video signals are supplied from the output terminal P1 via thesynthesizing circuit.

When the quantity of data read out of the optical disk 1, decoded anddisplayed has become equal to the size of “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” or a stopto the read operation is instructed from the input section 14, the CPU21 causes the read operation and decoding to be stopped.

Next the basic operation for stream recording will be described, with acase of recording the “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” of FIG. 1 being taken up as anexample. The CPU 21, using a file system manipulation commandincorporated in advance into its processing program, searches for avacant area as large as or larger than the “CHUNK_0001 .MPEG2” to bewritten, and determines its address.

Video signals entered from the input terminal P3 and audio signalsentered from the input terminal P4, after being encoded by the encoder10, are accumulated in the writing channel buffer 11. Then the CPU 21shifts the optical head 2 to its write position on the basis of addressinformation on the vacant area. The CPU 21 sets the optical head 2, theRF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3 and the ECC circuit 4 in thewrite mode, switches the switch 5 toward the writing channel buffer 11and, after fine adjustment of the position of the optical head 2, causesthe optical head 2 to start writing. This causes the newly preparedcontents of “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” to be read out of the writing channelbuffer 11, entered into the optical head 2 via the switch 5, the ECCcircuit 4 and the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3, and recordedonto the optical disk 1.

When the quantity of data read out of the writing channel buffer 11 hasbecome equal to a preset value, or a stop to the write operation isinstructed from the input section 14, the CPU 21 causes the writeoperation and decoding to be stopped. Finally the CPU 21, using a filesystem manipulation command incorporated in advance into its processingprogram, updates the pointer to “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” in a file system (theoptical disk 1) to make it point to the newly written position.

It is now supposed that such information files and stream files as shownin FIG. 26 are recorded on the optical disk 1. In this example oneprogram file named “PROGRAM_001.PGI” is included. Further, this opticaldisk 1 include three title files respectively named “TITLE_001.VDR,”“TITLE_002.VDR” AND “TITLE_003.VDR.”

This optical disk 1 also includes two chunkgroup files named“CHUNK_001.CGIT” and CHUNK_002.CGIT. This optical disk 1 furtherincludes three stream files named “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2,” “CHUNK_0011.MPEG2”and “CHUNK_0012.MPEG2,” while three information files named“CHUNK_0001.ABST,” “CHUNK_0011.ABST” and “CHUNK_0012.ABST” are placedtherein as pieces of information respectively matching them.

The logical structure of the optical disk having the information filesand the stream files shown in FIG. 26 is illustrated in FIG. 27. In thisinstance, the chunk information file “CHUNK_0001.ABST” designates thestream file “CHUNK_0001. MPEG2,” the chunk file CHUNK_0011.ABST”designates the stream file “CHUNK_0011.MPEG2,” and the chunk file“CHUNK_0012.ABST” designates the stream file “CHUNK_0012.MPEG2.” Morespecifically, the file ID of the stream is designated in thechunk_file_id field of CHUNK_%%%%.ABST of FIG. 24.

Further in this instance, the chunk group information file“CHUNK_0001.CGIT” designates the chunk information file“CHUNK_0000.ABST” and the chunk group information file “CHUNK_002.CGIT”designates the chunk information files “CHUNK_0011.ABST” and“CHUNK_0012.ABST.” More specifically, the file ID of the chunkinformation is designated in the chunk_file_id field of thechunk_arrangement_info ( ) of FIG. 23. This chunk_arrangement_info ( )is in the chunk group information file, and the data structure is suchthat there are as many sets of chunk_arrangement_info ( ) as chunksbelonging to the pertinent chunk group (the chunk_arrangement_info ( )of FIG. 23 is stated in the chunk_connection_info ( ) of FIG. 22, andthis chunk_connection_info ( ) is stated in the CHUNKGROUP_###.CGIT ofFIG. 21).

In CHUNKGROUP_001, there is only one set of chunk_arrangement_info ( ),in which chunk_info_file_id designates CHUNK_001. CHUNKGROUP_002 has twosets of chunk_arrangement_info ( ), in which CHUNKGROUP_0011 andCHUNKGROUP_0012 are respectively designated. This being he case, a chunkgroup can designate the reproducing sequences and the like of aplurality of chunks.

More specifically, first, the initial value of a clock in the pertinentchunk group is determined by chunkgroup_time_base_offset in theCHUNKGROUP_###.CGIT of FIG. 21. Next, when each chunk is to beregistered, presentation_start_cg_count andpresentation_end_cg_time_count of chunk_arrangement_info ( ) in FIG. 23are designated.

For instance, as in FIG. 28, the (time) length of CHUNK_0011 isrepresented by A, and that of CHUNK_0012, by B. Thepresentation_start_cg_count of CHUNKG_0011 is equal tochunkgroup_time_base_offset, and presentation_end_cg_count is equal tochunk_group_time_base_offset+A. Also, the presentation_start_cg_count ofCHUNKG_0012 is equal to chunk_group_time_equal tochunkgroup_time_base_offset+A+B. Under this setting, CHUNKGROUP_0012 canbe defined to be the outcome of consecutive reproduction of CHUNK_0011and CHUNK_0012.

Incidentally, where the reproduction times of CHUNK_0011 and CHUNK_0012overlap each other, it is possible to specify a corresponding shift intime. It is also possible to make a statement in the transition_info ( )in the chunk_arrangement_info ( ) of FIG. 23, special effects (includingfade-in, fade-out and wipe) can be designated in a transition betweentwo streams.

In the example of FIG. 26 (FIG. 27), the title information files“TITLE_001.VDR” and “TITLE_002.VDR” designate the chunk groupinformation file “CHUNKGROUP_001.CGIT,” and the title information file“TITLE_003.VDR” designates the chunk group information file“CHUNKGROUP_002.CGIT.” More specifically, in the title_info ( ) of FIG.16, a file ID of a chunk group is designated in a field namedcgit_file_id, and the time range in which pertinent titles within achunk group are designated in fields namedtitle_start_chunk_group_time_stamp and title_end_chunk_group_time_stamp.

For instance in the example of FIG. 27, TITLE_001 and TITLE_002respectively point to the former and latter halves of CHUNKGROUP_001.Incidentally, this division has been made to meet a requirement from theuser, and its position can be selected as the user prefers, but need notbe predetermined. Now it is supposed that, the position of division byTITLE_001 and TITLE_002 is limited to a position away by A from theleading position of CHUNKGROUP_001.

TITLE_001 designates CHUNKGROUP_001 as the chunk group, the start timeof CHUNKGROUP_001 as the start time of the title, and the time at auser_specified point as the end time of the title.

Thus, chunkgroup_time_base_offset (leading position) of CHUNKGROUP_001is set as title_start_chunk_group_time_stamp of TITLE_001, andchunkgroup_time_base_offset of CHUNKGROUP_001 plus the length of A isset as title_end_chunk_group_time_stamp of TITLE_001.

Similarly, TITLE_002 designates CHUNKGROUP_001 as the chunk group, thetime at a user-specified point as the start time of the title, and theend time of CHUNKGROUP_001 as the end time of the title.

Thus, chunkgroup_time_base_offset (leading position) of CHUNKGROUP_001plus the length of A is set as title_start_chunk_group_time_stamp ofTITLE_002, and chunkgroup_time_base_offset of CHUNKGROUP_001 plus thelength of CHUNKGROUP_001 is set as title_end_chunk_group_time_stamp ofTITLE_002.

Further, TITLE_003 designates CHUNKGROUP_002 as the chunk group, thestart time of CHUNKGROUP_002 as the start time of the title, and the endtime of CHUNKGROUP_002 as the end time of the title.

Thus, chunkgroup_time_base_offset (leading position) of CHUNKGROUP_003is set as title_start_chunk_group_time stamp of TITLE_003, andchunkgroup_time_base_offset of CHUNKGROUP_002 plus the length ofCHUNKGROUP_002 is set as title_end_chunk_group_time_stamp of TITLE_003.

Further in this example, the program information file “PROGRAM_PP1.PGI”specifies that part of TITLE_001 and part of TITLE_003 be reproduced inthis order. More specifically, one cut is singled out by designating thetitle by title_number in play_itme( ) of FIG. 20 and defining the startand end points by the times defined by title. By putting together aplurality of such cuts, a program is composed.

Next will be described the operation to additionally record(append-record) new information to the optical disk 1. Morespecifically, this recording is accomplished by, for instance, settingthe timer appropriately or the user's manipulation of the input section14 to instruct the optical disk apparatus to perform recording on a realtime basis. In the latter case, if the recording button is pressed, theend time of recording cannot be predicted, but if the button for theone_touch recording function (a function to continue recording for acertain period of time after the manipulation), it is predictable.

Here is described a pre-timed recording procedure by way of example. Inthis case, it is supposed that the user of the optical disk apparatusdesignates in advance the start and end times of recording, the bit rateof the bit stream and the channel on which the recording is to be doneamong other things. It is also supposed that, at the time the user madea recording reservation, the presence of a sufficient unused capacityfor the desired bit rate and recording duration was confirmed inadvance.

If another recording is done on the optical disk 1 between the time ofrecording reservation and that of recording execution, a sufficientcapacity for recording the program, of which recording is reserved, atthe designated bit rate may become unavailable. In such a case, the CPU21 will either reduce the bit rate from its specified level to enableinformation for the reserved duration to be recorded or keep the bitrate as designated and let recording be done only as long as possible.In this case, needless to mention, as soon as that other recording hasbeen done to adversely affect the recording reservation, the CPU 21issues a message to notify the user of this problem.

Now, when the start time of the scheduled recording nears, the CPU 21uses a timer and a clock built into it to automatically return to theactive mode from the sleep mode. The CPU 21 then uses a file systemmanipulation command incorporated in advance into its processing programto secure a sufficient area on the optical disk 1 to record the reservedprogram. Thus, as the remainder of the subtraction of the start timefrom the end time of the scheduled recording (recording duration)multiplied by the bit rate is the size of the area required forrecording the specified program, the CPU 21 first secures an area ofthis size. If, in recording this program, any other information filethan the stream file, such as a title information file for registrationof a new title for instance, needs to be recorded, a capacity forrecording such an information file or files should also be secured onthe optical disk 1. If a large enough area cannot be secured, theproblem will be addressed by one of the above-cited alternatives(including a change in bit rate and recording only as long as theavailable capacity allows).

Incidentally, as a new title is to be recorded, the user assigns a newfile name to the new stream file in a new stream directory. Here, thisis supposed to be ¥MPEGAV¥STREAMS_003¥CHUNK_0031. Thus, as shown in FIG.29, the file is named CHUNK_0031.MPEG2under the STREAM_003 directoryunder the MPEGAV directory under the root directory.

The CPU 21 orders each section to execute the recording mode. Forinstance, video signals inputted from a tuner (not shown) to the inputterminal P3 and audio signals inputted to the input terminal P4, afterbeing encoded by the encoder 10, are accumulated in the writing channelbuffer 11. Then the CPU 21 shifts the optical head 2 to the writeposition on the basis of address information on the earlier securedarea. The CPU 21 sets the optical head 2, the RF anddemodulating/modulating circuit 3 and the ECC circuit 4 in the writemode, changes over the switch 5 toward the writing channel buffer 11and, after fine adjustment of the position of the optical head 2, causesthe optical head 2 to start writing. This causes the newly preparedcontents of “CHUNK_0031.MPEG2” to be read out of the writing channelbuffer 11, and recorded onto the optical disk 1 via the switch 5, theECC circuit 4, the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3 and theoptical head 2.

Continuing the write operation described above, the CPU 21 causes thewrite operation to be stopped when any one of the following conditionsis met:

1) The end time of the scheduled recording has arrived;

2) It is made impossible to record on the optical disk by a capacityshortage or any other cause; or

3) An instruction is given to stop recording.

Next the CPU 21, using a file system manipulation command incorporatedin advance into its processing program, updates the pointer to“CHUNK_0031.MPEG2” in a file system to make it point to the newlywritten position. The CPU21 also makes ready a file for each of chunkinformation, chunkgroup information and title information, and recordsthe files with appropriate names assigned to them. To add, it isnecessary, at the time of recording or making a reservation forrecording, to secure a sufficient vacant capacity on the optical disk 2to record these files.

In this manner, a new information file is prepared, e.g. as illustratedin FIG. 30. In the figure, the file names with an asterisk (*) denotethe newly prepared files.

FIG. 31 shows the relationships among the newly created informationfiles. TITLE_004 designates CHUNKGROUP_003, CHUNKGROUP_003 designatesCHUNK_0031 and CHUNK_0031 designates STREAM_0031.

Thus, the new stream is registered in an information file as TITLE_004.The user can know the attributes and other features of TITLE_004 byusing the title checking function of the optical disk apparatus, and canalso reproduce TITLE_000.

Next will be described the operation to accomplish overwrite recordingon the optical disk 1 illustrated in FIG. 26 (FIG. 27). Overwriterecording means, as in the case of recording signals on a videotape,recording a program over an earlier recorded program (which is therebydeleted).

In overwrite recording, there are a number of options regarding thesequence of carrying out actual recording to fill an available capacity.The first conceivable option is to record in the order of streamsdesignated by titles. Thus, in the present case, recording is startedwith the leading edge of STREAM_0011 and, when the end of STREAM_0011has been recorded, recording is continued from the leading edge ofSTREAM_0012 onward, followed by recording in a vacant area when the endof STREAM_0012 has been recorded. When the recording in the vacant areahas exhausted the unoccupied space, recording is continued over anexisting stream.

The former method is superior in that it emulates videotaping. Thus, asit is similar to recording on a videotape, this method can be readilyunderstood by the user. The latter is superior in respect of protectionof existing recordings because their deletion is deferred.

Furthermore, if another recording is made on the optical disk 1 betweenthe time of recording reservation and that of executing the reservation,it may become impossible to secure a sufficient capacity to record thereserved program at the specified bit rate. In such a case, as in theabove-cited instance, either the bit rate is automatically reduced torecord the program for the whole reserved duration or the bit rate iskept as it is and recording is done as long as the available capacityallows.

When the scheduled start time of reserved recording nears, the opticaldisk apparatus returns to the active mode from the sleep mode. The CPU21 secures the whole unoccupied capacity on the optical disk 1.Obviously, there is an alternative not to secure the unoccupied capacityat this point of time but to secure it when it has become necessary, butit is supposed here, for the sake of convenience of description, tosecure the required capacity before the start of recording.

If, for pre-timed recording or the like, the size of the required areais known in advance because the start and end times and the bit rate arespecified, only the required capacity (perhaps plus a safety margin) maybe secured. If any information file is to be recorded in connection withthe program recording, for instance a title information file and thelike are needed to register a new title, the secured capacity should belarge enough to allow the recording of these information files and thelike as well.

Here it is supposed that the file name of a new stream file is assignedto the new stream file in a new stream directory.

The file name is ¥MPEGAV¥STREAMS_002¥CHUNK_0031 here. Thus, as shown inFIG. 32, the file is named CHUNK_0031.MPEG2under the STREAM_002directory under the MPEGAV directory under the root directory.

Video signals inputted to the input terminal P3 and audio signalsinputted to the input terminal P4, after being encoded by the encoder10, are accumulated in the writing channel buffer 11. Then the CPU 21shifts the optical head 2 to the write position on the basis of addressinformation on the earlier secured area. The CPU 21 sets the opticalhead 2, the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3 and the ECC circuit4 in the write mode, changes over the switch 5 toward the writingchannel buffer 11 and, after fine adjustment of the position of theoptical head 2, causes the optical head 2 to start writing. This causesthe newly prepared contents of “CHUNK_0031.MPEG2” to be read out of thewriting channel buffer 11, and recorded onto the optical disk 1 via theswitch 5, the ECC circuit 4, the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit3 and the optical head 2.

At this time, the stream file “CHUNK_0011.MPEG2” is first updated. Whenrecording has been completed until the end of “CHUNK_0011.MPEG2,” therecording operation proceeds to “CHUNK_0012.MPEG2” and further to“CHUNK_0031.MPEG2.”

Continuing the write operation described above, the CPU 21 causes thewrite operation to be stopped when any one of the three conditions ismet as in the above_cited case.

Next the CPU 21, using a file system manipulation command incorporatedin advance into its processing program, updates stream files, chunkinformation, chunkgroup information and title information.

Incidentally, depending on the timing of writing completion, the fileconfiguration may change. For instance, if recording is done on“CHUNK_0031.MPEG2” after the completion of overwriting of two streams,CHUNK_0011.MPEG2 and CHUNK_0012.MPEG2, the file configuration on theoptical disk 1 will be as illustrated in FIG. 33. The file names with anasterisk (*) denote the newly prepared files.

FIG. 34 shows the relationships among the newly created informationfiles (files in FIG. 33). As comparison with FIG. 31 would readilyreveal, CHUNK_0031 is additional as a CHUNK included in CHUNKGROUP_003designated by TITLE_003, and CHUNK_0031 designates STREAM_0031.

On the other hand, if writing over an existing stream ends uncompleted,for instance overwrite recording ends on the way of recordingCHUNK_0011, the CHUNK_0031 stream secured for overwriting is releasedbecause the overwriting is abandoned. In this case, titles are processedin a specific way. Thus, overwrite recording is started from the leadingedge of TITLE_003 and, if the recording is ended on the way, the titleis divided then. As shown in FIG. 35, a new title TITLE_003 is assignedto the portion from the start position of overwrite recording to the endposition, and the portion after that (the remaining portion of theoriginal TITLE_003) is named TITLE_004.

Next will be described the operation for title reproduction. It is nowsupposed that an optical disk 1 having such files as are shown in FIG.26 is inserted into the optical disk apparatus, and titles are to bereproduced. First, when the optical disk is inserted, the CPU 21 readsinformation files from the optical disk 1, and stores them into the RAM24. This operation is accomplished by repeating the basic operation toread information files.

The CPU 21 first reads VOLUME.TOC and ALBUM.STR. Next the CPU 21 checkshow many files having an extension “.VDR” under the directory “TITLE”there are. A file having this extension is a file containing titleinformation, and the number of such files is equal to that of titles. Inthe example of FIG. 26, the number of titles is 3. Next, the CPU 21reads 3 title information files and stores them into the RAM 24.

The CPU 21 controls the OSD control circuit 9 to generate characterinformation representing title information recorded on the optical disk1, causes the synthesizing circuit 8 to synthesize the information withvideo signals, and causes the synthesized signals to be supplied fromthe output terminal P1 to have them displayed. In the present case, theexistence of three titles and the length and attributes (name, date andhour of recording, and the like) of each of the three titles aredisplayed.

Here it is supposed that the user specifies reproduction of, e.g.,TITLE_002. In an information file of TITLE_002 (in cgit_file_id oftitle_info ( ) in FIG. 16), a file ID specifying CHUNKGROUP_001 isrecorded, and the CPU 21 memorizes it and stores CHUNKGROUP_001 into theRAM 24.

Next, the CPU21 what CHUNK each of the start time and the end time(title_start_chunk_group time_stamp and thetitle_end_chunk_group_time_stamp in title_info ( ) of FIG. 16) matches.This is accomplished by comparing the sets of information in which eachCHUNK is registered (presentation_start_cg_time_count andpresentation_end_cg_time_count in chunk_arrangement_info ( ) of FIG.23). In the present case, as illustrated in FIG. 27, it is seen that thestart time of TITLE_002 is on the way of CHUNK_0001. Thus, it is foundout that, in order to reproduce TITILE_002 from the beginning,reproduction can be started from the middle of a stream file“CHUNK_0001.MPEG2.”

Next, the CPU 21 checks what position in a stream the leading edge ofTITLE_002 corresponds to. Thus, calculation is made to find out whichoffset time (time stamp) in the stream the start time of TITLE_002corresponds to and next, by using characteristic point information inthe CHUNK file, the reproduction start time immediately before the starttime is identified. The offset distance from the file leading edge,which is the start point of reproduction, is thereby determined.

Then the CPU 21, using a file system manipulation command incorporatedin advance into its processing program, determines a physical address onthe optical disk 1 where the “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” is recorded and itslength. The offset address of the reproduction start point found out asdescribed above is added to this address, and the address of thereproduction start point of TITLE_002 is thereby finalized.

Then the CPU 21 shifts the optical head 2 to its read position on thebasis of this address information on “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2.” The CPU 21 setsthe optical head 2, the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3 and theECC circuit 4 in the read mode, switches the switch 5 toward the readingchannel buffer 6 and, after fine adjustment of the position of theoptical head 2, causes the optical head 2 to start reading. The contentsof “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” are thereby accumulated in the reading channelbuffer 6.

The data accumulated in the reading channel buffer 6 are supplied to thedecoder 7 to undergo decoding, and video signals and audio signals aresupplied. When the quantity of data read out of the optical disk 1,decoded and displayed becomes equal to the size of “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2”,the CPU 21 shifts to reproduction of TITLE_003. The operation toreproduce this TITLE_003 is the same as that to reproduce TITLE_002.

When the reproduction of the registered title or an instruction is givento stop reading, reading and decoding are discontinued.

To add, when a new disk is inserted into the optical disk apparatus asthe optical disk 1 or a disk of a wrong format is inserted, the CUP 21will try to read VOLUME.TOC and ALBUM.STR upon insertion of the disk,but no such files will be present on the disk. In such a case, i.e. whenit is impossible to read VOLUME.TOC and ALBUM.STR, the CPU 21 willoutput a message to seek an instruction from the user. The user willinstruct the CPU 21 to eject the optical disk 1 (if, for instance, it isa disk of a wrong format), to initialize it (if, for instance, it is anew disk of the right format) or to restore the data somehow (if, forinstance, the desired data on a disk of the right format are destroyed).

Further explanation of each field in volume_attribute ( ) in FIG. 4 willfollow. Of these fields, volume_attribute_length is a field in whichinformation on the length of this volume_attribute ( ) expressed inbytes is stated. The vdr_version field is where is stated informationindicating the version of the VDR Application Layer Format to whichconforms the logical volume, where this volume_attribute ( ) is present.Herein, 4 digit numerals are expressed in a bed of 4 bits per digit.

The title_playback_mode_flag field is where a flag to set the method oftitle reproduction is stated. As illustrated in FIG. 36, “1” on thisflag means a continuous play mode, in which the CPU 21, upon ending ofthe reproduction of a designated title, continues to play the next titlein accordance with the sequence of title numbers, while “0” on this flagmeans a single play mode, in which the CPU 21 stops reproduction uponending of the reproduction of a designated title.

The program_playback_mode_flag field is where a flag to set the methodof program reproduction is stated. As illustrated in FIG. 37, “1” onthis flag means a consecutive play mode, in which the CPU 21, uponending of the reproduction of a designated program, continues to playthe next program in accordance with the sequence of program numbers,while “0” on this flag means a single play mode, in which the CPU 21stops reproduction upon ending of the reproduction of a designatedprogram.

The volume_play_time ( ) field is where the total duration of normalreproduction of all the titles present in this volume is stated, and theduration of program reproduction is not included here. In thisvolume_play_time ( ) is stated time_period ( ) for stating the time.

The update_time_count field is where records and the frequency ofupdating (not very exact) of VOLUME.TOC are stated.

The maker_id field is where the last updated maker code of the apparatusis stated, expressed in a sequence of 16 characters conforming to ISO646.

The model_code field is where the last updated model number of theapparatus is stated, expressed in a sequence of 16 characters conformingto ISO 646.

The POSID field is where catalog numbers including POS Code are stated,and used on a ROM disk or a commercially available disk.

Next will be described, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 38, acase of operation where a title is to be reproduced by utilizingtitle_playback_mode_flag. First, at step S22, the CPU 21 judges whetheror not the user has instructed reproduction by manipulating the inputsection 14 and, if not, waits until an instruction is given. If it isjudged at step S11 that reproduction has been instructed, the CPU 21will move on to step S12 to cause the reproduction of the title, whichthe user has designated by manipulating the input section 14, to bestarted. This, as described above, causes the information reproducedfrom the optical disk 1 by the optical head 2 to be processed by theroute of the RF and demodulating/modulating circuit 3, the ECC circuit4, the switch 5, the reading channel buffer 6 and the decoder 7. Videodata supplied from the decoder 7 are outputted from the output terminalP1 via the synthesizing circuit 8, while audio data are outputted fromthe output terminal P2.

Next, the CPU 21 goes on to step S13 to judge whether or not thereproduction of the pertinent title has ended. If not, at step S14 theCPU 21 judges whether or not the user has instructed to end thereproduction by manipulating the input section 14. If it is judged thatthe user has not instructed to end the reproduction, the CPU 21 willreturn to step S13, and the subsequent procedures are executed inrepetition. At step 14, if it is judged that the user has instructed toend the reproduction of the prescribed title on the way, the CPU 21 willgo ahead to step S16 to cause the reproduction of that title to be endedand, returning to step S11, wait until a new playback instruction isreceived.

If it is judged at step S13 that the reproduction of one title has beencompleted, the CPU 21 will proceed to step S15 to judge whether or notthe title_playback_mode_flag is “1.” As described with reference toFIGS. 2 through 4, this flag is included in volume_attribute ( ), whichin turn is included in volume_information ( ), which is included inVOLUME.TOC, and this VOLUME.TOC is automatically read and stored intothe RAM 24 by the CPU 21 when an optical disk 1 is inserted into theoptical disk apparatus. Therefore, the CPU 21 can pass judgment at stepS15 according to information stored in the RAM 24.

If it is judged at step S15 that the title_playback_mode_flag is not “1”(that it is “0”), the CPU 21 will move on to step S16, ends the playbackof the optical disk 1 at that point of time, returns to step S11, andshifts to a state of standby for a new playback instruction.

If it is judged at step S15 that the title_playback_mode_flag is “1,”the CPU 21 will search for the next tile, and at step S18 judge whetheror not the next title has been retrieved. If the next title is on theoptical disk 1, the CPU 21 will move on to step S19, and causes thatretrieved title to be reproduced. It then returns to step S13 to executethe subsequent procedures in repetition.

If it is judged at step S18, there is no more unreproduced title on theoptical disk 1, the CPU 21 will go on to step S18, end reproduction andreturn to step S11.

FIG. 39 illustrates a case in which a program is reproduced usingprogram_playback_moda_flag. As this process from step S31 through S39 issimilar to that from step S11 through S19 shown in FIG. 38, itsexplanation is dispensed with, but in this case, too, as in that of FIG.38, control is effected, when the reproduction of one program has ended,as to whether reproduction of another program is to follow orreproduction is totally ended on the basis of theprogram_playback_mode_flag.

The user can have these flags recorded on the optical disk 1 asrequired. The recording is done as described earlier as the basicinformation file write operation.

Although the foregoing description has referred to the application ofthe present invention to an optical disk apparatus, the invention canalso be applied to recording or reproducing information onto or fromsome other storage medium.

To add, as the program offering medium for offering to users a computerprogram to perform the above_described processing, communication mediaincluding networks and satellites can be used in addition to storagemedia such as magnetic disks, CD ROMs and solid memories.

As hitherto described, the reproducing apparatus, reproducing method andprogram offering medium according to the invention control thereproduction continuity of main information from the storage mediumaccording to playback mode information reproduced from the storagemedium, so that the storage medium can be played back always in the samecondition whatever reproducing apparatus the storage medium is loadedon.

Furthermore, the storage medium according to the invention, which storesplayback mode information, can permit reproduction of main informationalways in the same condition irrespective of the reproducing apparatusused.

What is claimed is:
 1. A reproducing apparatus comprising: reproducingmeans for reproducing information including main information andplayback mode information recorded on a storage medium, in which saidmain information represents audio and/or video data of a plurality oftitles and in which said playback mode information represents one of (i)a single play mode wherein the audio and/or video data of only a singletitle is reproducible and (ii) a continuous play mode wherein the audioand/or video data of more than one titles are reproducible; extractingmeans for extracting said playback mode information from saidinformation defining a playback mode from the information reproduced bysaid reproducing means; and control means responsive to said playbackmode information extracted by said extracting means for controlling thereproduction continuity of said main information from said storagemedium.
 2. A reproducing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, furthercomprising recording means for recording said playback information ontosaid storage medium.
 3. A reproducing apparatus as claimed in claim 1,wherein: said control means is responsive to said playback modeinformation for causing, when the reproduction of a prescribed part ofsaid main information has been completed, said reproducing means eitherto continue to reproduce another part of main information or todiscontinue reproduction.
 4. A reproducing apparatus as claimed in claim1, wherein: said playback mode information prescribes the continuity ofsaid main information.
 5. A reproducing method for a reproducingapparatus, comprising: a step to reproduce information comprising ofplayback mode information and main information recorded on said storagemedium, in which said main information represents audio and/or videodata of a plurality of titles and in which said playback modeinformation represents one of (i) a single play mode wherein the audioand/or video data of only a single title is reproducible and (ii) acontinuous play mode wherein the audio and/or video data of more thanone titles are reproducible; a step to extract said playback modeinformation from said information defining a playback mode from theinformation reproduced at said reproducing step; and a step responsiveto said playback mode information extracted at said extracting step tocontrol the reproduction continuity of said main information from saidstorage medium.
 6. A program offering medium for offering a program toexecute processes comprising: a step to reproduce information comprisingof playback mode information and main information recorded on saidstorage medium, in which said main information represents audio and/orvideo data of a plurality of titles and in which said playback modeinformation represents one of (i) a single play mode wherein the audioand/or video data of only a single title is reproducible and (ii) acontinuous play mode wherein the audio and/or video data of more thanone titles are reproducible; a step to extract said playback modeinformation from said information defining a playback mode from theinformation reproduced at said reproducing step; and a step responsiveto said playback mode information extracted at said extracting step tocontrol the reproduction continuity of said main information from saidstorage medium.
 7. A storage medium from which main information is to bereproduced, on which is recorded: playback mode information inaccordance in which said main information represents audio and/or videodata of a plurality of titles and in which said playback modeinformation represents one of (i) a single play mode wherein the audioand/or video data of only a single title is reproducible and (ii) acontinuous play mode wherein the audio and/or video data of more thanone titles are reproducible.
 8. A reproducing apparatus as claimed inclaim 1, wherein: said playback mode information prescribes thecombination of said main information.